The Arizona Department of Transportation opened five more miles of State Route 89A in Oak Creek Canyon on Thursday, Nov. 12, as crews continue their efforts to repair portions of the highway damaged by flooding from Oct. 30 to Nov. 2.
This means that public access has been restored to homes and businesses beyond the original closure point at Slide Rock State Park.
The highway remains closed from approximately milepost 387 just south of the Pine Flats Campground, which remains inaccessible, to the Oak Creek Vista scenic overlook at milepost 390.
This 3.5-mile section of the five-mile span was severely damaged when floodwaters caused drainages to overtop the road, undermining parts of the roadway, exposing guardrail supports and damaging pavement.
An extended closure is expected as the damage will require significant reconstruction efforts. There is no estimated time for completion.
Drivers should obey all traffic laws and exercise caution as repair efforts continue. Parking along the highway is strictly prohibited.
